Voice of Louth people vital for an ‘active, vibrant and inclusive county’

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

County Louth’s outdoor recreation, local sports facilities and kids play opportunities are all under the spotlight in a new series of online surveys launched by Louth County Council.

It has long been recognised that play, sport, and outdoor recreation are essential components of a healthy and connected community. They contribute to physical wellbeing, mental health, social inclusion, and lifelong development.

The ‘Active Louth’ public consultation initiative aims to gather feedback from residents across County Louth to inform future planning and investment in outdoor recreation; local sports facilities and play opportunities for all age groups.

Four surveys are now available on Louth County Council’s website and social media platforms, and the local authority are appealing to local people to have their say in shaping a vibrant, active and inclusive county.

In addition to the online surveys, the council confirmed a series of in-person consultation events will be held across Louth to ensure the public can contribute directly.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “We all know how important it is to have places where we can get out, get active, and connect with others, whether that’s through sport, play, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Active Louth is about ensuring that these opportunities are available to everyone, in every part of our county. I’d really encourage people to take a few minutes to share their views. Your voice will help shape the future of recreation in Louth.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: “Part of Louth County Council’s mission is to enhance quality of life through active engagement and effective public services. Whether it’s a child exploring in a playground, a teenager joining physical activities, or an older adult enjoying a walk, all these activities enrich all our lives and strengthen our communities.”

He added; “With ‘Active Louth’, our aim to ensure that everyone in our county has access to safe, inclusive, and engaging opportunities to be active. I would ask everyone to please engage with the consultation process as we want to hear from as many people as possible across the county.”

Drogheda Mayor, and Louth councillor, Michelle Hall welcomed the ‘Active Louth’ consultation process, saying she had a introduced a council motion on the issue several years ago.

“When I brought this motion forward, I strongly believed that play and outdoor recreation deserved their own policies to guide investment and decision-making and having a sports policy is a welcome addition. I am proud that my passion for the need for more infrastructure and high quality public spaces then, has now facilitated the Special Policy Committee to put them on our work programme and develop these policies, and we are inviting the people of Louth to have their say.”

She added: “The three policies will provide a framework that is accessible and inclusive for all ages and abilities, and is planned as part of healthier, more sustainable towns and villages in County Louth. There is also a specific survey for the voice of children and young persons which follows on again from another motion I put forward, to ensure we include them as important stakeholders in developing our policies.”

“The surveys are about local voices shaping local priorities,” Mayor Hall continued. “I encourage everyone — families, sports clubs, schools, advocacy groups, nursing homes and individuals — to take part. By sharing your views, you can directly influence how we develop facilities, protect open spaces, and create opportunities for active living across Drogheda and the wider county. This is about planning for the future — ensuring that children have safe places to play, that young people and adults have opportunities for sport, and that our communities can enjoy the outdoors together. These policies will serve generations to come.”

Louth County Council are inviting all Louth residents to participate in this important consultation process. The feedback received will play a vital role in shaping a more active, inclusive, and vibrant County Louth.

Details of the in person consultation events are as follows: Ardee Parish Centre: Monday, 1st September, 5pm-7pm; Barbican Centre, Drogheda: Thursday, 4th September, 5pm-7pm; Dundalk Sports Centre: Tuesday, 9th September, 5pm-7pm.

To take part in the surveys contact activelouth@louthcoco.ie